When designing that data center, network closet, or better yet, server room, deciding on the best racks to deploy as well as how to configure them should be one of the things at the top of the list. And just like building a home, the surface details can steal the spotlight. However, the quality of the foundation makes a huge difference between the success and then the frustration. A server rack is known for its ability to help organize information technology equipment, like network switches, into standardized assemblies that can make efficient use of the space as well as other additional resources. Server cabinet accessories manufacturer shares useful insight on the type of equipment to install in a server rack.
Depending on your selected options, they can enhance power protection, management, physical security, and mobility, among others.
So what kind of equipment can you install in a server rack?
1. IT Production Equipment
IT production equipment refers to the storage, routers, servers, and other additional devices that can fulfill the only purpose of the IT installation. Note, racks have other applications that may not necessarily employ IT equipment, like manufacturing, but the same principles must but apply.
Server racks are designed to hold standard 19-inch rack-mountable equipment easily.
This should be doable if the item is not too deep for the server cabinet or better yet too high to fit into the rack spaces. The equipment includes moveable mounting brackets that help to fasten to the rack rails using screws.
Heavier equipment can include horizontal rails and shelves that easily mount into the rack in order to give extra support. In case the equipment is not really made for the installation of a rack, then you can install a rack to hold it in place.
However, ensure that the equipment is not too big for the shelf.
2. IT Infrastructure and Rack Equipment
Racks have a way of accommodating different IT infrastructure coupled with rack accessories supporting the operation of the viable production of equipment. This covers equipment such as UPS systems, PDUs, and cable managers. And even if a majority of the equipment is created and designed to fit in different standard rack spaces, vertical PDUs can mount to vertical rails often without using rack spaces.
3. Rack Standards – Knowing the Differences
There are different, but the recommended rack standards in the market. For starters, the width of the rail and the horizontal as well as the hole’s vertical spacing and the total size of the cabinets.
Most IT machines are normally 19 inches. They follow an average standard usually set by the prestigious Electronics Industry Alliance.
Final Thoughts
Racks play an important role in the organization of different IT equipment. Racks also organize these devices into standardized assemblies, which make great and efficient use of the space and resources available around. Typically, the rails are made of steel and aluminum. These materials support tons of pounds of different equipment. Over and above, the rails have round holes that allow you to mount the rack equipment using screws easily.
